Bellingham Police officers respond to a death investigation at a city park along Whatcom Creek on Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026.(Photo: PNW Daily)
BELLINGHAM, Wash. — A person was found dead shortly after 9 a.m. Wednesday in a city park along Whatcom Creek near the Bellingham Technical College hatchery ponds.
Witnesses called 911 after seeing the person slumped over on a park bench.
First responders from the Bellingham Fire Department attempted lifesaving measures.
Bellingham Police officers arrived on scene at approximately 9:37 a.m. for a death investigation. The person had been pronounced deceased shortly before officers were dispatched.
Personal belongings at the location appeared consistent with those of Bellingham’s unhoused community.
BPD said nothing suspicious at the scene indicated foul play.
The Whatcom County Medical Examiner’s Office took jurisdiction of the body and will determine the manner and cause of death.
Police have not released the person’s identity.
This is a developing story. PNW Daily will add more information as it becomes available.
Frequently Asked Questions
A person was found dead Wednesday morning at a city park along Whatcom Creek near the Bellingham Technical College hatchery ponds. Witnesses called 911 after seeing the person slumped over on a park bench.
Bellingham Police and Fire Department crews responded shortly after 9 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9, 2026.
Police had not released the cause of death at the time of publication.
About the Author
Was it a man or a woman
They did not say, but they take extra care to minimize impact of certain information pending notification of family at BPD.